Type of camera: Integral-motor autofocus 35mm single-lens ... Lenses usable:
Nikkor and Nikon lenses having Nikon F mount* .... 35. 25. (with MB-40). Test 2.
Using an AF-S VR 70-200mm f/2.8G ED-IF lens, Vibration Reduction ..... flash
exposure during zoom- .... AF 28-80mm f/3.3-5.6G ... AF 70-300mm f/4-5.6D ED.
N i k o n Type of camera: Integral-motor autofocus 35mm single-lens reflex with electronically controlled focal-plane shutter Exposure modes: Programmed Auto (Flexible Program possible), Shutter-Priority Auto, Aperture-Priority Auto and Manual Picture format: 24 x 36mm (standard 35mm film format) Lens mount: Nikon F mount (with AF coupling, AF contacts) Lenses usable: Nikkor and Nikon lenses having Nikon F mount* * With limitations; see chart on page 13
F 6
S p e c i f i c a t i o n s
Flash ready-light: Lights up when the compatible Nikon Speedlight attached is fully charged; blinks (3 seconds after flash) for full output warning Sync terminal: ISO519 terminal, lock screw provided Creative Lighting System: Advanced Wireless Lighting, AUTO FP High-Speed Sync, Modeling flash, FV Lock and Wide Area AFAssist Illuminator available with SB-800/600 Speedlights Self-timer: Electronically controlled; timer duration: 10 seconds
Viewfinder: Fixed eye-level pentaprism, built-in diopter adjustment (-2.0 to +1m-1)
Depth-of-field preview button: Press to stop-down lens aperture
Eyepoint: 18mm (at –1.0m-1)
Film loading: Film automatically advances to first frame when camera back is closed
Focusing screen: B-type BriteView clear Matte screen II, interchangeable with six other optional focusing screens Viewfinder frame coverage: Approx. 100% Finder magnification: Approx. 0.74x with 50mm lens set to infinity at -1.0m-1 Viewfinder information: See page 14 Autofocus: TTL phase detection, Nikon Multi-CAM2000 autofocus module Autofocus detection range: Approx. EV –1 to EV 19 (ISO 100, at normal temperature) Focus modes: Single Servo AF and Continuous Servo AF, and Manual Focus Tracking: Automatically activated in Single Servo AF or Continuous Servo AF Focus area: One — or a group — of 11 focus areas can be selected
Mirror lockup: Set using film advance mode selector
Film advance modes: Automatic advance with built-in motor; three modes available (S: One-frame advance, CL: Continuous low-speed shooting, CH: Continuous high-speed shooting, CS: Continuous silent-low-speed shooting) Film advance speed: (With Continuous Servo AF (C), Manual exposure mode, shutter speed of 1/250 s or faster, 36-exposure film, CR123A-type lithium batteries [AA-type alkaline-manganese or Rechargeable Li-ion Battery EN-EL4 in Multi Power Battery Pack MB-40]) CL: Approx. 2 fps [4 fps]; CH: Approx 5.5 fps [8 fps]; CS: Approx. 1 fps [2 fps] Film rewind: Choice of automatic or manual; automatically rewinds at the end of film roll or when two film rewind buttons are pressed; rewind speed with 36-exposure film: Approx. 7 seconds (12 seconds in CS mode) Multiple exposure: Activated via shooting menu
Test 1 Using an AF-S VR 24-120mm f/.3.5-5.6G ED-IF lens, Vibration Reduction function on, in Continuous Servo AF with film advance mode at S and shutter speed of 1/250 second. After lightly pressing the shutter release button for 8 seconds, autofocus operation covers the full range from infinity (∞) to the closest distance and back to infinity (∞) before each shot. After the exposure meter automatically turns off, the same operation follows for the next shot.
Battery/Temperature 20˚C (68˚F) CR123A 3V lithium 15 LR6/AA-size alkaline (with MB-40) 10 R6/AA-size Ni-MH (with MB-40) 30 FR6/AA-size lithium (with MB-40) 45 Rechargeable Li-ion EN-EL4 35 (with MB-40)
–10˚C (14˚F) 6 1 30 35 25
Test 2 Using an AF-S VR 70-200mm f/2.8G ED-IF lens, Vibration Reduction function on, in Continuous Servo AF with film advance mode at CH and shutter speed of 1/250 second. After lightly pressing the shutter release button for 3 seconds, autofocus operation covers the full range from infinity (∞) to the closest distance and back to infinity (∞) three times before each shot. The same operation follows for the next shot.
Battery/Temperature 20˚C (68˚F) CR123A 3V lithium 35 LR6/AA-size alkaline (with MB-40) 55 R6/AA-size Ni-MH (with MB-40) 55 FR6/AA-size lithium (with MB-40) 95 Rechargeable Li-ion EN-EL4 65 (with MB-40)
–10˚C (14˚F) 15 4 50 70 50
Interval timer: Activated via shooting menu
Duration of Long Time (Bulb) exposure (Approx.):
AF Area Modes: Single Area AF, Dynamic AF, Group Dynamic AF or Dynamic AF with Closest-Subject Priority selectable
Top LCD panel information: See page 14
Focus lock: Focus is locked by pressing AE-AF-L button or lightly pressing shutter release button in Single Servo AF
Data imprint: Activated via shooting menu; in-frame, betweenframe and 0-frame imprint possible: film speed range: ISO 503200 (DX)
Battery/Temperature 20˚C (68˚F) CR123A 3V lithium 5 hours LR6/AA-size alkaline (with MB-40) 6 hours R6/AA-size Ni-MH (with MB-40) 5 hours FR6/AA-size lithium (with MB-40) 8.5 hours Rechargeable Li-ion EN-EL4 7 hours (with MB-40)
Exposure metering: Three built-in exposure meters — 3D Color Matrix, Center-Weighted and Spot Metering range (ISO 100, f/1.4 lens): EV 0 to EV 20 in 3D Color Matrix and Center-Weighted, EV 2 to EV 20 in Spot Exposure compensation: With exposure compensation button; ±5 EV range, in 1/3, 1/2 or 1 steps Auto Exposure Bracketing: Number of shots: 2-7; compensation steps: 1/3, 1/2, 2/3, or 1 EV steps Auto Exposure Lock: By pressing AE-L/AF-L button Film speed setting: DX or Manual selectable (manual setting has priority over DX detected film speed); DX: ISO 25-5000, Manual: ISO 6-6400 in 1/3 steps Shutter: Electronically controlled vertical-travel focal-plane shutter with built-in Shutter Monitor Shutter speeds: 30 to 1/8,000 s (1/3 steps in S and M modes); Bulb setting available in M mode (Shutter speed can be prolonged to 30 minutes in M mode) Accessory shoe: ISO518 hot-shoe contact digital data communication (sync contact, ready-light contact, TTL auto flash contact, monitor contact, GND), safety lock provided Sync contact: X-contact only; flash synchronization up to 1/250 s (up to 1/8,000 s possible in AUTO FP High-Speed Sync) Flash control: TTL flash control by combined five-segment TTL Multi Sensor with single-component IC and 1,005-pixel RGB sensor; i-TTL Balanced Fill-Flash with SB-800/600; Film speed range in TTL auto flash: ISO 25-1000 Flash sync modes: Front-curtain sync (normal sync), Red-Eye Reduction, Red-Eye Reduction with Slow Sync, Slow Sync, RearCurtain Sync
Rear LCD panel information: See page 14
Internal clock: Built-in clock; 24-hour type; leap year adjustment until December 31, 2099 Camera back: Hinged back; film confirmation window, AF area mode selector, multi-selector, MENU button, film speed (ISO) button, flash sync mode button, INFO button, rear LCD panel, built-in data imprint unit Shooting data: Recordable number of film rolls (36 exposures): Approx. 57 rolls in basic shooting data (13 items), Approx. 31 rolls in detailed shooting data (21 items) 10-pin remote terminal: Equipped Power source: Battery holder MS-41 provided (two 3V lithium batteries); optional Multi Power Battery Pack MB-40 and AA-type battery holder MS-40 available (for eight alkaline-manganese, lithium or Ni-MH batteries, or one Rechargeable Li-ion Battery EN-EL4); built-in backup battery Power switch: Power ON, OFF and LCD panel illuminator Exposure meter: Auto meter shut-off 8 seconds after power turned on if no operations are performed; activated by lightly pressing shutter release button or pressing AF start button after power is turned on Battery power confirmation: N for sufficient power; ˜ indicates batteries are beginning to lose power; M indicates batteries are just about exhausted, prepare fresh batteries; blinking M indicates replacement of batteries is necessary (shutter locks and rear LCD indications disappear) Usable number of 36-exposure film rolls per set of fresh batteries (Approx.): The usable number of film rolls was tested under the following conditions by Nikon:
NIKON INC. 1300 Walt Whitman Road, Melville, N.Y. 11747-3064, U.S.A. www.nikonusa.com Printed in Japan Code No. 8CE43601 (0408/A)K
–10˚C (14˚F) 3 hours 1.5 hours 4 hours 7 hours 6 hours
Tripod socket: 1/4 (ISO1222) Custom Settings: 41 Custom Settings are available Two-Button Reset: Pressing the MENU and INFO buttons simultaneously and holding them for more than 2 seconds resets various settings to their original default settings (with some exceptions) Dimensions (W x H x D): Approx. 157 x 119 x 78.5mm (6.2 x 4.7 x 3.1 in.) Weight (without batteries): Approx. 975g (34.4 oz.) ● Microsoft® and Windows® are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries. ● Macintosh® and QuickTime® are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Apple Computer Inc. in the United States and/or other countries. ● CompactFlash™ is a trademark of SanDisk Corporation. ● DuPont™ and KEVLAR® are trademarks and registered trademarks of DuPont or its affiliates. All specifications apply when fresh batteries are used at normal temperature (20˚C/68°F) under test conditions established by Nikon. Specifications and designs are subject to change without any notice or obligation on the part of the manufacturer. © 2004 NIKON INC.
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Nikon’s new flagship professional F-SLR, the F6, signifies the depth and breadth of our vision for truly high-quality professional photography. No existing F-SLR can hope to challenge the level of refinement of the F6: ergonomically, electronically, mechanically, and in system compatibility. Every attribute of the camera has been examined, evaluated and optimized — the mechanics, the grip contours and operational sounds, just to name a few — to attain a degree of precision so extreme as to be
1988
beyond the perceptibility of even the most seasoned photographers. Nikon’s F6. Designed to stimulate the five senses, by engineers who possess a sixth. It’s an extraordinarily pure, stimulating photographic experience… one that has to be experienced to truly be believed
1996
Design by
Extrasensory Perfection
Phenomenal Precision autofocus and Focus Tracking at motor speeds of up to 8 fps, shot after shot. Mirror movement is stabilized and vibration reduced by the Mirror Balancer. This advantage is particularly beneficial during long-time exposure and also with long telephoto lenses when close focusing. In conjunction with the bright, easy-to-view 0.74x viewfinder, the Mirror Balancer provides distinct advantages that give you sharper views whenever and wherever the defining moment occurs.
High-precision shutter assembly
Shutter Monitor
QUIET INTEGRITY — The influence of state-of-the-art mechanics is evident in the highly refined sound of the F6 in action.
No shutter unit in any other camera comes close to matching the precision of the F6’s assembly. Created from cutting-edge materials — DuPontTM KEVLAR® and a special aluminum alloy — the blades of the shutter unit offer unparalleled reliability and are extremely lightweight, for lightning-quick movement. For enhanced accuracy, test movement of the blades is carefully analyzed using a highspeed video camera and computer simulations, enabling unprecedented precision even at shutter speeds of up to 1/8,000 second. Shutter performance is kept consistently accurate by the Shutter Monitor, which scrutinizes every single shutter release. Should the shutter speed vary even slightly from the calibrated speed, the camera automatically compensates to maintain accurate exposure. The ultimate in precision and reliability, under even the most demanding conditions.
Minimized operational sound and vibration The F6 mechanics offer fast, accurate, virtually noise-free movement. The shutter unit, aperture control mechanics and shutter charge motor each feature a floating-type design to suppress internal vibration. Nikon engineers, intent on subduing the camera’s operational sounds, used a professional audio room to properly gauge their quality and frequency. The degree of vibration to which every part of the camera would be subjected was measured. This meticulous approach has resulted in a camera comprised of parts that have been highly refined for absolute minimum vibration, and frequency of movement attenuated to a level below that detectable by the human ear.
Mirror mechanism for optimum viewing The time required to lower the mirror has been greatly reduced thanks to the F6’s mirror balance mechanism, which minimizes mirror bounce. Viewing time is increased, allowing more time for AF operation — this is one reason the F6 can offer
Highly efficient mechanics The development of the F6 marks the first time 3D computer movement analysis has ever been applied to an SLR. This technique reveals the degree of power distributed to or generated by particular parts in specific directions. This made it possible for us to optimize the mechanical operation of the camera with fewer parts, leading to lower power consumption, higher efficiency and increased durability and reliability.
Rear chassis — film rewind and shutter charge mechanism 5
Supreme Sensitivity
AF sensors for 11-area wide autofocus system
A u t o f o c u s
Exposure
11-Area High-Speed Autofocus System
3D Color Matrix Metering
Featuring eleven AF sensors — including nine cross-type sensors which provide viewing area coverage of approximately 50% horizontally and approximately 29% vertically — the Multi-CAM2000 AF sensor module responds quickly and delivers razor-sharp focus even in the most challenging conditions. The crosstype sensors function with all AF Nikkor lenses, and enable enhanced small-area or low-contrast subject detection. Furthermore, large sensors help make possible smooth, swift AF operation with markedly wider defocus detection capability.
The F6’s 3D Color Matrix Metering offers enhanced precision thanks largely to an improved scene-detecting algorithm. It analyzes numerous aspects of existing scene conditions — including brightness, contrast, selected focus area, subject-to-camera distance and color — and, after comparing them to the meter’s database, gives you superprecise exposure control, faithfully preserving the ambience of the scene.
AF Area Mode selector
RGB Sensor for exposure metering
Flexible Center-Weighted and Spot Metering Nikon’s own Flexible Center-Weighted Metering provides you with the option of selecting the size of the sensing area from Custom Settings. And Spot Metering changes to correspond with the focus area you’ve selected.
Dynamic AF Operation
CAPTURING BRILLIANCE — The 0.74x viewfinder displays radiant colors in every hue imaginable, and the F6’s superior control features do the rest.
M e t e r i n g
Even when shooting a moving subject, the F6’s Dynamic AF ensures highly precise focusing, by shifting rapidly to the focus area to which the subject has moved. In Dynamic AF mode, one of three available modes, you can assign priority to the most suitable focus area for your composition. Engage Closest-Subject-Priority Dynamic AF mode to have the F6 select the appropriate area for you. And for optimum results when attempting to capture a moving subject, use Group Dynamic AF mode. Select several adjacent focus areas (center, top, bottom, left, right), and the camera automatically focuses on the closest subject in either of the selected areas.
Flash Control i-TTL Balanced Fill-Flash The F6 supports Nikon’s newest and most advanced Flash Control system, the i-TTL system, providing unsurpassed results and myriad creative possibilities. The key to i-TTL Flash Control’s superiority is Nikon’s new Advanced Flash Data Communication system. Incorporating an all-new technique for executing monitor pre-flash, along with unparalleled wireless operation, the system boosts i-TTL Flash Control performance even beyond Nikon’s acclaimed 3D MultiSensor Balanced Fill-Flash systems. i-TTL is at the heart of Nikon’s Creative Lighting System and Advanced Wireless Control.
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TTL Multi Sensor for i-TTl flash control
Remarkable Reliability alloy front body and covers (top, bottom); strategically placed rubber surfaces; an easyto-grip texture, and a shutter that has undergone testing up to 150,000 cycles. The F6 features the strength, rigidity and durability to perform. Put it to the test and see for yourself.
Harsh environmental testing
Actual photo from dust resistance testing
ENDURE THE ELEMENTS — The strength to weather nature’s most rugged conditions is apparent in the construction of the F6.
To ensure the camera could withstand the most severe conditions and environments, the F6 has been subjected to rigorous testing. Even the lubricants applied to gear parts are the very best available, assuring peak performance in extreme temperatures and high humidity. The F6’s astonishing reliability is a function of our “right material for the right place” approach. Our engineers considered countless situations for camera use, then submitted the F6 to real-life testing to assure exceptional dependability even in extreme conditions.
Multiple power sources The F6’s standard power source, two CR123A 3V lithium batteries enable high-speed film advance at 5.5 fps. Or you can choose the optional, multifaceted Multi Power Battery Pack MB-40. It accommodates eight 1.5V LR6 (AAsize alkaline), 1.5V LR6 (AA-size lithium) or 1.2V
Camera ergonomics The first time you handle the F6, you’re seduced by the strikingly comfortable, genuine design. Every curve, every contour has been achieved through advanced computer-aided design. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Nikon spent an unprecedented amount of time sculpting the contours of the grip, to ensure greater comfort and superior control during extended use. And you’ll soon see that the button and dial design and layout is every bit as attractive as it is intelligent. In our quest for new levels of ergonomic achievement, we’ve left no part of the camera’s exterior ignored.
R6/AA-size Ni-MH batteries, or the Rechargeable Li-ion Battery EN-EL4. With the MB-40 attached, you can enjoy an even faster film advance speed of 8 fps. The MB-40 also incorporates a vertical grip shutter release, an AF Start button, Multi-selector and Command Dials for more comfortable and responsive shooting.
Unrivaled durability Imagine, as a photographer, the places or conditions in which you are the most concerned about the toughness of your photographic tools. Now look at the F6 — an aluminum-alloy die-cast chassis; magnesium-
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Multi Power Battery Pack MB-40
Rechargeable Li-ion Battery EN-EL4
Formidable Flexibility Exposure modes Programmed Auto (P) mode offers automatic shutter speed and aperture settings. In Flexible Program, rotate the Main-Command Dial to choose settings other than those automatically selected. ShutterPriority Auto (S) lets you manually set shutter speeds ranging from 1/8,000 to 30 seconds. In Aperture-Priority Auto (A), you can choose from available apertures in 1/3 EV steps. For complete control over exposure settings, select Manual (M) mode.
Exposure compensation/AE Bracketing Control exposure compensation manually from +5 EV to –5 EV in 1/3 EV steps. Automatic Bracketing allows you to shoot the same scene two or three times at exposure values differing in increments of 1/3, 1/2, 2/3, or 1 EV.
5.5 fps (or 8 fps with optional Multi Power Battery Pack MB-40), and Continuous Silent (CS) for nearly silent operation at approximately 1 fps. The F6 also offers manual rewind capability.
Data back functions Access built-in data back functions easily via the rear LCD panel and Multi Selector. Functions include data imprint (in-frame or between-frame), Multiple exposure and Interval timer. You also have control over 41 Custom Settings. The recorded data of each shot can be downloaded to your computer as text data via optional Data Reader MV-1. Exposure data display (rear LCD)
Film advance modes The four modes available are Single (S), Continuous Low-Speed (CL) for up to approx. 2 frames per second (fps), Continuous High-Speed (CH) for up to
C
Nikon Film Scanners SUPER COOLSCAN 5000 ED/ COOLSCAN V ED These scanners enable high-quality scanning with a true optical resolution of 4,000 dpi, delivering exceptionally sharp digital images. The award-winning 5000 ED offers unmatched scanning speeds of 20 seconds per image — there’s no more efficient way to create an archive of shots you’ve captured with your F6.
You can personalize your F6 exactly as you wish. Any of the 41 Custom Settings (in six groups) can be easily selected and adjusted, as they are clearly displayed on the rear LCD panel. Custom Setting Menu
SUPER COOLSCAN 5000 ED COOLSCAN V ED
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C: Bank select Groups of custom settings are stored in four banks (A, B, C and D) R: Reset CSM Select one of the banks above to reset all of its Custom Settings to the factory values. a: Autofocus a1: AF-C priority operation a2: AF-S priority operation a3: Group dynamic AF operation a4: AF Activation
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a5: Focus area illumination a6: Focus area selection a7: Vertical AF start button a8: M/A mode b: Metering/Exposure b1: EV step for shutter speed/aperture b2: EV step for exposure compensation b3: Exposure compensation by Command Dial only b4: Diameter of Center-Weighted metering area
m
S
e
t
b5: Extended shutter speed in M mode b6: Compensation for focusing screen c: Timer/Lock c1: AE lock operation c2: AE-L/AF-L operation c3: AF-ON/AE-L button operation c4: Auto meter-off duration c5: Self-timer duration d: Shoot/Display d1: Film loading operation d2: Film rewind operation
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d3: Film leader status after rewind d4: Last frame number for auto rewind d5: Film advance speed (fps) for CH mode with MB-40 d6: DX warning d7: Rear LCD panel information d8: Imprint density d9: MB-40 battery indication
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e: Bracketing/Flash e1: Top flash sync speed setting e2: Slowest flash sync speed setting e3: AA flash mode e4: Modeling flash activation by depth-of-field preview button e5: AE/Flash bracketing e6: Exposure bracketing in M mode e7: Bracketing order e8: Bracketing setting operation
f: Controls f1: Center click of Multi-selector f2: AE meter/AF activation by Multi-selector f3: FUNC button assignment f4: Command Dials’ function f5: Button press-and-release operation
Extra Lighting
The Optics Compatible Lenses AF Nikkors AF-S 17-35mm f/2.8D ED-IF AF 18-35mm f/3.5-4.5D ED-IF AF 24-85mm f/2.8-4D IF AF-S 24-85mm f/3.5-4.5G ED-IF AF-S VR 24-120mm f/3.5-5.6G ED-IF AF-S 28-70mm f/2.8D ED-IF AF 28-80mm f/3.3-5.6G AF 28-100mm f/3.5-5.6G AF 28-105mm f/3.5-4.5D IF AF 28-200mm f/3.5-5.6G ED-IF AF 35-70mm f/2.8D AF-S VR 70-200mm f/2.8G ED-IF AF 70-300mm f/4-5.6D ED AF 70-300mm f/4-5.6G AF 80-200mm f/2.8D ED AF VR 80-400mm f/4.5-5.6D ED AF-S VR 200-400mm f/4G ED-IF
The master SB-800 attached to the F6 is fitted with an orange color filter for frontal illumination. Each of Group A’s two SB-800s has a Diffusion Dome SW-10H attached, and provides illumination for the woman on the balcony, while Group B’s two SB-800s are each fitted with an orange color filter for illumination of the mariachis to the right.
AF 14mm f/2.8D ED AF 18mm f/2.8D AF 20mm f/2.8D AF 24mm f/2.8D AF 28mm f/1.4D AF 28mm f/2.8D AF 35mm f/2D AF 50mm f/1.4D AF 50mm f/1.8D AF 85mm f/1.4D IF AF 85mm f/1.8D AF 180mm f/2.8D ED-IF AF-S VR 200mm f/2G ED-IF AF-S 300mm f/2.8D ED-IF II AF-S 300mm f/4D ED-IF AF-S 400mm f/2.8D ED-IF II AF-S 500mm f/4D ED-IF II AF-S 600mm f/4D ED-IF II
AF-S Teleconverter TC-14E II AF-S Teleconverter TC-17E II AF-S Teleconverter TC-20E II AF Fisheye 16mm f/2.8D AF Micro 60mm f/2.8D AF Micro 105mm f/2.8D AF Micro 200mm f/4D ED-IF AF Micro 70-180mm f/4.5-5.6D ED AF DC 105mm f/2D AF DC 135mm f/2D AI-P-type Nikkors 45mm f/2.8 P
35mm f/1.4 50mm f/1.2 85mm f/1.4 105mm f/2.5 135mm f/2.8 Micro 55mm f/2.8 Micro 200mm f/4 IF PC Micro 85mm f/2.8D Other Nikkors Reflex 500mm f/8 Reflex 1000mm f/11 PC 28mm f/3.5
AI- and AI-S-type Nikkors 35-200mm f/3.5-4.5 70-210mm f/4.5-5.6 24mm f/2 28mm f/2
Lens Compatibility Chart (DX and IX-Nikkor lenses cannot be used.) A
P mode
S mode
A mode
M mode
✓
✓
✓
✓
✓
✓
1
✓
✓
✓
✓
✓
Non-D-type AF Nikkors
✓5
✓5
✓
✓
✓
AI-P-type Nikkors
—
✓
✓
✓
✓
AI-type Nikkors
—
✓
—
—
✓
Reflex-Nikkors
—
—
—
—
✓
PC-Nikkor
—
✓
—
—
✓
D-type PC-Nikkor 11
—
✓
—
—
—
AI-type Teleconverters
—
✓
—
—
✓
—
✓
—
—
✓ 14
AF-S & D-/G-type AF Nikkors 2 AF-S & AF-I
Wireless multiple flash can be performed just as easily as with an oncamera Speedlight, affording you the
Group A
Group B
Group C
Master
Flash mode setting
Monitor Pre-flash activation
Flash output level setting
Master Group A Group B
freedom to test the seemingly limitless creative potential of the system. You can also enjoy comprehensive control over scene lighting when using Nikon’s i-TTL Speedlights SB-800/SB-600 as they can be separated into as many as four groups (the master* and three i-TTL Speedlight groups). Control independent flash mode settings and adjustment of compensation values for each group’s flash output level via the master. To pre-check a scene for illumination and shadows, there’s the Modeling Flash function. Actual And each group can comflash for shooting prise as many Speedlights as you want, virtually putting you in total command of background lighting.
Monitor Pre-flash
Advanced fill-flash photography even in brighter conditions and when using fast-aperture lenses, is now more effective. As conditions call for a faster shutter speed, the activated Auto FP high-Speed Sync and Nikon’s compatible Speedlights allow flash photography at up to 1/8,000 second, the camera’s top shutter speed. This system enables fill-flash photography in brighter light and under faster action conditions. *The SB-600 cannot be used as a master unit.
Nikon F-mount Nikon’s legendary lens mount is also part of the F6, and it allows you to use any Nikkor lens in the incredibly deep, varied lineup. When shooting with a non-CPU manual focus Nikkor lens, you can employ
Bellows Focusing Attachment PB-6 13
✓ Compatible
Mirror up
Shutter opens
Data transmission from the master unit
Advanced Wireless Lighting procedure Flash mode and other types of information are transmitted from the master unit in the form of a series of low-level flashes to each remote unit. In TTL mode, the camera’s RGB metering sensor detects Monitor Pre-flashes to determine each flash unit’s flash output level.
you’ve entered the lens’ focal length and maximum aperture in the camera’s memory. The F6 can store this data for as many as ten such lenses at a time.
Nikon’s exclusive lens technologies Nikon Super Integrated Coating (SIC) delivers fabulous contrast, color rendition, out the Nikkor optics. Chromatic aberration is minimized by Extra-low Dispersion (ED)
Flash Value Lock (FV Lock)
throughout the zoom range. The Silent
Flash Value represents the measured flash exposure for a given subject. Engaging FV Lock maintains the desired flash exposure during zooming or recomposition.
Wave Motor (SWM) greatly enhances preci-
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Spot
✓3
✓
✓
✓
✓
✓
✓
✓
✓
✓
✓
✓
✓
✓
✓
✓
✓6
✓
✓7
✓
—
✓8
✓ 7, 8
✓
6
✓
✓7
✓
✓
3
✓
✓
✓
✓6
✓
✓7
✓ 15
✓ 6,16
✓ 16
✓ 7, 16
✓
10
3
— Incompatible
1 With maximum effective aperture of f/5.6 or faster. 2 G-type Nikkor has no aperture ring. Aperture should be selected from camera body. 3 3D Color Matrix Metering is selected. 4 Compatible with AF-S and AF-I Nikkor lenses except AF-S 17-35mm f/2.8D EDIF, AF-S 24-85mm f/3.54.5G ED-IF, AF-S VR 24120mm f/3.5-5.6G ED-IF and AF-S 28-70mm f/2.8D ED-IF. 5 When AF 80-200mm f/2.8, AF 35-70mm f/2.8 or AF 28-85mm f/3.5-4.5 is used in a telephoto zoom position at close
glass elements. Nikon’s own Close-Range
sion and reduces noise in AF operation. And Vibration Reduction (VR) automatically diminishes image blur caused by camera Speedlight SB-800
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9
CenterWeighted
Color Matrix
1,005-pixel Color Matrix Metering once
image sharpness and consistency throughSpeedlight SB-600
Teleconverters 4
Correction (CRC) offers superb quality
Group C
Flashes for data transmission
Auto FP High-Speed Sync
Metering system
Electronic Rangefinder 1
B
Creative Lighting System and Advanced Wireless Lighting
Exposure mode
Focusing AF
Lens
shake. The quality is equivalent to shooting at a shutter speed three stops faster. 13
6
7
8
9
range, the image on the by pre-setting lens aperclear matte field may not ture. Exposure must also coincide with the focus be determined before indication. In this case, shifting; use AE/AF-L butfocus manually using ton before shifting. clear matte field. 10 By stop-down metering. With focal length and Exposure is determined maximum aperture regisby pre-setting lens apertered in “setting lens ture. Exposure must also data”. be determined before Exposure metering area is shifting. locked to the center focus 11 The camera's exposure area. metering and flash control Go to "b6: Screen Comp." system do not work propin Custom Settings and erly when shifting and/or adjust the compensation tilting the lens, or when value as indicated on the using an aperture other supplied "Focusing Screen than the maximum aperSelector Chart". ture. By stop-down metering. Exposure is determined
12 Without shifting and/or tilting the lens. 13 Auto Extension Ring PK11A, 12 or 13 is necessary. 14 By stop-down metering. Exposure is determined by stopping-down aperture on the bellows. Exposure must also be determined before shooting. 15 By stop-down metering. 16 Go to “b6: Screen Comp.” in Custom Settings and select “+0.5”.
The Controls
The System
6
1
7
1 2
8
3
2
3
9
Film rewind
4 ! "
4
You can choose automatic or manual film rewind. Automatic film rewind at the end of film roll is also possible.
5 6
5
7
9 ! " #$ %
. / : ;
) ? ~ + , -
Function button Customize the Function Button to perform the task you want — including FV Lock, AE-L/AF-L, Flash Cancel and Metering mode.
@ [
Multi-selector \
| } V
] ^
&( ) ~ +
,
" FV lock # Exposure mode $ Sync speed % Shutter speed & Aperture stop ( Aperture ) Multiple exposure ~ Battery power + Frame counter/Exposure compensation value , Flash ready-light
Top LCD Panel Indications 1 2 3
8 9 ! "
Lets you select focus area when shooting; allows you to select the function in Menu mode.
5
#
6 7
$ %
1 Shutter speed 2 Shutter speed lock 3 Sync speed 4 Electronic analog exposure display 5 Exposure mode 6 Flexible program 7 Battery power
8 Aperture lock 9 Aperture ! Aperture stop " Auto Exposure Bracketing # Frame counter $ Exposure compensation value % Exposure compensation
Rear LCD Panel Shooting Data Indications (Normal*) 1
7 8
% Auto Exposure Bracketing/Film rewind (R2) button
> Multi-selector
2 Power switch
& Command lock button
@ AF Area mode selector
3 Sub-Command Dial
( Rear LCD panel
[ Film rewind (R1) button
4
4 Depth-of-field preview button
) Film confirmation window
\ Camera strap eyelet
5
5 Function button
~ Film speed (ISO) button
9 ! " # $
] Film rewind crank
6
%
6 Self-timer indicator LED
+ MENU button
^ Film advance mode
7 Film advance mode selector lock release
, Flash sync mode button
_ Exposure mode button
- INFO button
{ Exposure compensation button
8 Sync terminal
. Metering system selector lock release
| Camera strap eyelet
9 10-pin terminal
/ Metering system selector
} Top LCD panel
! Lens release button
: Diopter adjustment knob ; AE/AF-L button
V Accessory shoe
" Focus mode selector # Eyepiece shutter lever
< AF start button
$ Viewfinder
= Main-Command Dial
? Multi-selector lock lever
2 3
1 ISO 2 EV steps in Auto Exposure Bracketing 3 Auto Exposure Bracketing 4 Flash sync mode 5 Custom Setting 6 Focus area 7 Film speed
8 DX 9 Auto Exposure Bracketing status ! Multiple exposures " Number of shots in multiple exposure # Data imprint $ Lens number % AF servo mode
*In addition to Normal display, Detailed and Large displays are available.
14
Type B: This standard screen offers unobstructed viewing and easy focusing on its overall matte surfaces.
Focusing Stage PG-2 Simplifies close-up focusing when using a tripod-mounted camera.
DG-2 DR-5
Eyepiece Correction Lenses Five optional eyepiece correction lenses allow you to adjust the diopter beyond its standard range of –3 to +1m-1.
Close-Up Attachment Lenses Make close-up photography much easier. Eyepiece Correction Lenses Type U: For lenses with focal lengths longer than 200mm.
No.0
No.1
No.2
No.3T
No.4T No.5T
Rubber Eyecup DK-17 Increases viewing comfort and prevents stray light from entering the viewfinder. Antifog Finder Eyepiece DK-17A Made from a transparent plastic and features a special surface coating which reduces fogging on the eyepiece. Right-Angle Viewing Attachment DR-5 Provides an upright, frontward-facing image with right-angle viewing. Select a reproduction ratio of 1:1 or 2:1. Eyepiece Magnifier DG-2 Provides 2x magnification of the central portion of the viewfinder image. Optional Eyepiece Adapter DK-7 is required when attaching to the F6.
Type E: Its grid patterns help you to compose a picture.
PK-11A
PK-12
Type M: This shows cross hair and millimeter scales. Ideal for high-magnification close-ups and astrophotography.
Modulite Remote Control Set ML-3 Provides infrared LED beam remote control for two separate channels to enable automatic camera operation from a distance of up to 8 meters (26 ft.).
PK-13
Remote Cord MC-20 (0.8m/2.6 ft.) Enables remote firing of the F6 and setting of exposures up to 9 hrs. 59 min. 59 sec. long. The exposure time appears in the rear LCD.
PB-6
Remote Cord MC-30 (0.8m/2.6 ft.) Enables remote firing with a triggerlock function. Extension Cord MC-21 (3m/9.8 ft.) Available for 10-pin remote accessories.
Type J: Enables manual focusing with microprism. Suitable for general photography
Connecting Cord MC-23 (0.4m/1.3 ft.) Connects two F6 cameras for simultaneous shutter release.
Close-up Accessories Auto Extension Rings PK-11A/12/13 Slide on and off your camera in seconds for a wider range of reproduction ratios.
No.6T
TTL Macro Speedlight SB-29s Gives you the choice of flash-front or selective-relief lighting.
Remote control accessories
SB-29s
1 Shutter release button
Nomenclature
Interchangeable Focusing Screens These special Nikon optics are ideal for manual focusing and as composition aides, and have no effect whatsoever on the F6’s autofocus operation. All are made of Nikon ground glass. There are seven types available (B, U, E, M, J, A, and L).
8
4
_ {
1 12mm-dia. reference circle for Center-Weighted Metering area 2 Focus area (focus brackets) 3 Electronic analog exposure display 4 Exposure compensation 5 Auto Exposure Bracketing 6 Auto Exposure Lock 7 Shutter speed lock 8 Aperture lock 9 Focus indicators ! Metering system
Macro Adapter Ring BR-2A Enables lenses to be mounted in reverse for a relatively high reproduction ratio.
Viewfinder Accessories
Viewfinder Information
MC-30 Type A: Features a matte Fresnel field with split-image rangefinder and microprism collar.
Bellows Attachment PB-6 Mount between the F6 and the lens for close-up and macro photography. Optional accessories include PB-6E Extension Bellows, PB-6M Macro Copy Stand and PS-6 Slide Copying Adapter.
Data Reader MV-1 Transfers shooting data stored in the F6 to a CompactFlash™ card. Data then can be transferred from the memory card to your personal computer.
ML-3
Type L: Same as Type A but with split-image rangefinder line at a 45° angle.
MC-20
15
Data Communication Accessories
MV-1
